Events

Two epic musicals, a farcical comedy and a critically-acclaimed drama highlight the University of South Dakota Department of Theatre’s 2013-14 season.

“Les Misérables,” the epic musical by Claude-Michel Schonberg and Alain Boublil, takes the stage Nov. 21-25. The story, which takes place during 19th century France, features convict Jean Valjean on the run, hunted by the relentless policeman Javert for breaking his parole during the French revolution. A mesmerizing musical that has achieved global popularity, “Les Misérables” features 7:30 p.m. performances Nov. 21 through Nov. 23 and again on Nov. 25 with a 2 p.m. matinee on Nov. 24.

Cue the laughter with “General O’s Toenail” in February. This play features an imaginative blending of farce, allegory and the theatre of the absurd as the author focuses on a young draftee and the unfortunate circumstances of his military service. “General O’s Toenail” will be performed at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 20 through Feb. 23 and at 2 p.m. on Feb. 24.

The curtain closes on this season with “Pippin,” music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz based on the book by Roger O. Hirson. Earlier this year, the Broadway revival of this modern musical received Tony Awards for Best Musical and several other categories. Pippin, the eldest son of King Charlemagne, sets out to make his life special by dabbling in women, war and politics in his quest for true love. The broad comedy, featuring bawdy characters in often dark circumstances, performs at 7:30 p.m., April 24 through April 26 and again on April 28 with a 2 p.m. show slated for April 27.

USD Theatre performances are in the Wayne S. Knutson Theatre, which is located in the Warren M. Lee Center for the Fine Arts. Ticket prices for each performance are $15 for adults, $12 for senior citizens (62 and older), $10 for youths (K-12) and non-USD students, and $5 for USD students with a valid ID. Tickets are available at the University Theatre Web site at www.usd.edu/cfa/Theatre or by calling (605) 677-5400.